Leicester to be re-declared a Smoke Control Area

From June 1, 2018, all of Leicester will be re-declared as a Smoke Control Area, under a new Smoke Control Order.

Limitations on using smoky fuels such as coal and wood have been in place since the late 1950s, with a total of 38 separate Smoke Control Orders issued between 1958 and 1975.

By replacing the previous Smoke Control Orders with a single new one covering the entire city, it will make it easier for householders and businesses to understand their obligations and comply with the clean air laws.

Leicester deputy city mayor with responsibility for public health and the environment, Cllr Adam Clarke, said: “Over the years more than three dozen different Smoke Control Orders have been made in relation to various parts of the city.

“That can make it confusing for people to understand what they are allowed to do or not in different parts of the city.

“But replacing these 38 previous orders with one, new Smoke Control Order, makes sense. It leaves residents in no doubt that they live within the Leicester Smoke Control Area, and makes it clear that we are serious about improving air quality across the whole city.

“Over the years we’ve seen more homes and businesses using wood or biomass as low carbon alternatives for heating. We want people to be clear that they must use authorised smokeless fuels, or ensure their appliances are legally exempt.”

The original Smoke Control Orders were drawn up in the wake of the Clean Air Act 1956.

The act followed the Great Smog of 1952, in which London was brought to a standstill with a heavy fog combining fumes from coal fires, vehicle emissions and power plants.

The Great Smog was the worst air pollution crisis in European history, causing the deaths of an estimated 8,000 to 12,000 people.

Under the Clean Air Act 1993, emitting smoke from the chimney of a building in a Smoke Control Area can result a fine of up to £1,000.

People will still be able to use exempt appliances, such as wood-burning stoves or authorised smokeless fuels, in open fireplaces.